top of page

Swordtail Care Guide

Xiphophorus hellerii

Swordtails are colorful, peaceful, and hardy freshwater fish — perfect for beginners and community tanks alike. Native to Central America, they thrive in well-maintained aquariums with plenty of swimming space.

📋 Quick Facts

TraitInfo

SizeUp to 4–5 inches (10–13 cm)

Lifespan3–5 years

TemperamentPeaceful, social

DietOmnivore

Water Temperature72–82°F (22–28°C)

pH Range7.0–8.4

HardnessModerate to hard

Tank Size15+ gallons (more for groups)

🏠 Tank Setup

  • Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons for a trio; 20+ gallons preferred for stability and more fish.

  • Substrate: Sand or fine gravel.

  • Plants & Decor: Live plants (like Java fern, Anubias, Hornwort), rocks, and driftwood provide hiding spots and improve water quality.

  • Filtration: Use a reliable filter to maintain clean water. Moderate flow preferred.

  • Lighting: Moderate lighting for both plants and fish comfort.

  • Heater: Maintain stable tropical temperatures.

🧼 Water Parameters

  • Test water weekly with an aquarium test kit.

  • Perform 25–50% water changes weekly to maintain water quality.

  • Avoid ammonia and nitrites; keep nitrates low (<40 ppm).

🐠 Diet

Swordtails are omnivores and need a varied diet:

  • Staple: High-quality flake or pellet food.

  • Supplements: Frozen or live foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms).

  • Veggies: Blanched spinach, zucchini, or spirulina flakes for fiber.

Feed 1–2 times per day; only what they can consume in 2 minutes.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Behavior & Tank Mates

  • Peaceful but active; males can be territorial with each other.

  • Ideal in a ratio of 1 male to 2–3 females to reduce harassment.

  • Good tank mates:

    • Mollies

    • Platies

    • Guppies

    • Corydoras

    • Tetras (non-nippy species)

    • Gouramis (peaceful types)

Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species.

🐣 Breeding

Swordtails are livebearers — they give birth to free-swimming fry.

  • Gestation: 4–6 weeks.

  • Signs of pregnancy: Enlarged belly, dark gravid spot near anal fin.

  • Fry care:

    • Use a breeding box or separate tank.

    • Feed fry crushed flakes, baby brine shrimp, or specialized fry food.

Adults may eat fry, so provide hiding spots (like floating plants).

⚠️ Common Health Issues

  • Ich (white spot disease): Treat with temperature adjustment and medication.

  • Fin rot, fungal infections: Caused by poor water conditions — keep tank clean!

  • Swim bladder disorder: Often from poor diet or overfeeding.

👉 Quarantine new fish and plants before adding to your tank.

👍 Tips for Success

  • Keep a consistent maintenance routine.

  • Don’t overstock the tank.

  • Introduce fish gradually to prevent stress.

  • Monitor for bullying, especially between males.

bottom of page